Combined neck and upper body protective garment

ABSTRACT

A neck protector comprising a collar sized and shaped to provide a continuous closure around a neck of a wearer. The collar has a first pair of opposed ends, with one end having a first tongue and the other a first groove. The first tongue fits into the first groove to form a first tongue and groove interlock, which is maintained with a closure. Also, an upper body protector which may be used in combination with the neck protector. The upper body protector comprises a body portion and a spine protector shield system, and/or a chest protector shield system attached to the body portion. Both shield systems comprise at least two overlapping shield sections sized, shaped and positioned to cover at least a portion of the wearer&#39;s spine or sternum, while permitting flex, freedom of movement, and venting.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to protective equipment. In particular, the present invention relates to protective equipment for reducing or eliminating neck and upper body injuries ordinarily associated with various activities, including but not limited to contact sports such as lacrosse, ice hockey, ringette, football and action sports such as dirt biking, mountain biking, ski and sea-doo activities.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Neck and upper body injuries are fairly common for players of contact sports such as lacrosse, ice hockey, ringette and football. Ice hockey, in particular, is a sport where sharp skate blades pose a risk of dangerous lacerations to the players, and therefore, it has become generally mandatory for ice hockey players to wear neck protection which inhibits lacerations in the neck area that can cause life-threatening injuries. Blunt force contact can also cause injury in hockey and other sports. Advances in the field of protective equipment have led to protective garments that include neck protectors, and spine and sternum shields, among other protective elements.

Known neck protectors generally comprise a collar type arrangement with a short bib section in which the collar is wrapped around the neck of the wearer and fastened at the rear. These known neck protectors are generally awkward and uncomfortable for the wearers.

For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,449,251 to Gauthier discloses a lightweight sports neck protector comprising a combined bib and upstanding collar to protect the clavicles and throat of the wearer. The bib of the Gauthier neck protector only covers a portion of the wearer's front to permit easier donning by connecting the hook and loop fasteners of the collar in the back. In use, the overlapping ends of the collar create an awkward and uncomfortable bulky region. The overlapping hook and loop interlock becomes somewhat less secure over time with use and may be prone to opening during use.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,195,802 to Armellino discloses a tactical vest with a partitioned collar to form an armadillo-like protection of the neck area. The partitioned collar comprises at least one rear panel and at least two side panels. The front of the wearer's neck is left exposed. The stated purpose of this design is to selectively provide either 1) complete neck protection for the wearer with the rear panel in position, or 2) detachment of the rear panel when the wearer is in a prone position to prevent discomfort and poor seating of a helmet. Two hook and loop straps are provided on the Armellino neck protector only to selectively secure the rear panel to the two side panels.

Known spine and sternum shields generally comprise compression molded foam elements positioned in the wearer's sternum or spine area.

For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,103,924 to Morrow discloses an upper body protective garment for cushioning blows imparted upon the wearer's body, and includes a chest protector portion. The chest protector portion includes a middle chest protector portion, which is intended to be positioned in the sternum area of the chest, formed of one or more compression-molded foam elements.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,007,108 to Laberge discloses sports player protective equipment comprising a system of protective padding members over the front sternum and rear spine portions. A protective garment with similar features is described in U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2003/0167560 of LaShoto.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, what is desired is a neck protector which can be combined with upper body protective equipment to shield a wearer's neck and upper body from impact forces and potential injury due to impact and laceration, yet which is adjustable, easy to don, provides adequate venting and is comfortable to wear.

An embodiment of the invention combines the neck protector with a shoulder protector portion, a back protector portion, and a chest protector portion to form a single integral unit and protect against laceration and impact from skate blades, sticks, pucks and other threatening elements.

An embodiment of the combined neck and upper body protective equipment of the present invention shields a wearer's neck and upper body from impact forces and potential injury due to impact and laceration, yet is adjustable, easy to don, provides adequate venting and is comfortable to wear.

An embodiment of the invention comprises an embodiment of a neck protector that shields a wearer's neck from impact forces and potential injury due to impact and laceration, yet is adjustable, easy to don, provides adequate venting and is comfortable to wear.

An embodiment of the invention comprises an embodiment of an upper body protector that shields a wearer's upper body from impact forces and potential injury due to impact and laceration, yet is adjustable, easy to don, provides adequate venting and is comfortable to wear.

Furthermore, in its preferred embodiment, the present invention offers convenience and greatly increased protection by combining the otherwise separate, neck protector and the upper body protector (which are also separately comprehended by the invention) to make one integral protective garment. The preferred embodiment of the present invention takes advantage of modern methods of molding and bonding technologies and greatly improves protection from impact by incorporating medium density foams and external plastic membranes to high impact areas of the garment.

Accordingly, there is provided in one aspect of the present invention a neck protector comprising:

-   -   a collar sized and shaped to provide a continuous closure around         a neck of a wearer, when in a closed configuration;     -   said collar having a first pair of opposed ends;     -   said collar having a first tongue at one of the ends and a first         groove at the other of the ends, wherein said first tongue is         adapted to fit into said first groove to form a first tongue and         groove interlock; and     -   a closure for maintaining the first tongue and groove interlock         and keeping the collar in said closed configuration.

Optionally, the collar of the neck protector comprises a first part and a second part, each of said first and second parts having a first end and a second end;

-   -   the first pair of opposed ends (referred to above) comprising         the first end of the first part and the second end of the second         part;     -   the collar further comprising a second pair of opposed ends         comprising the second end of the first part and the second end         of the second part;     -   said collar having one of a second tongue and a second groove at         said second end of said first part and the other of said second         tongue and said second groove at said first end of said second         part;     -   wherein said second tongue is adapted to fit into said second         groove to form a second tongue and groove interlock.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a combined neck and upper body protector comprising:

-   -   an upper body protector;     -   a neck protector detachably attached to said upper body         protector, the neck protector comprising:     -   a collar sized and shaped to provide a continuous closure around         a neck of a wearer, when in a closed configuration;     -   said collar having a first pair of opposed ends;     -   said collar having a first tongue at one of the ends and a first         groove at the other of the ends, wherein said first tongue is         adapted to fit into said first groove to form a first tongue and         groove interlock;     -   a closure for maintaining the first tongue and groove interlock         and keeping the collar in said closed configuration;     -   a bib depending from the collar;     -   at least one neck shield member attached to the collar and to         the bib, the at least one neck shield member being positioned         over a throat area of the wearer, wherein the neck shield member         is adapted to break initial impact and distribute impact forces         between the collar and the bib; and     -   said upper body protector having a chest protector shield         system, the at least one neck shield member being sized, shaped,         and positioned to underlie the chest protector shield system to         provide uninterrupted protection of at least a portion of the         wearer's throat, larynx, sternum and chest.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a combined neck and upper body protector comprising:

-   -   an upper body protector;     -   a neck protector detachably attached to said upper body         protector, the neck protector comprising:     -   a collar sized and shaped to provide a continuous closure around         a neck of a wearer, when in a closed configuration;     -   said collar having a first pair of opposed ends;     -   said collar having a first tongue at one of the ends and a first         groove at the other of the ends, wherein said first tongue is         adapted to fit into said first groove to form a first tongue and         groove interlock; and     -   a closure for maintaining the first tongue and groove interlock         and keeping the collar in said closed configuration;     -   a bib depending from the collar;     -   at least one neck shield member attached to the collar and to         the bib, the at least one neck shield member being positioned         over a spine area of the wearer, wherein the neck shield member         is adapted to break initial impact and distribute impact forces         between the collar and the bib; and     -   said upper body protector having a spine protector shield         system, the at least one neck shield member is sized and shaped         to underlie the spine protector shield system to provide         uninterrupted protection of the wearer's spine.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a neck protector comprising:

-   -   a collar sized and shaped to provide a continuous closure         substantially around a neck of a wearer;     -   a bib depending from said collar; and     -   at least one neck shield member attached to the collar and to         the bib, wherein the neck shield member is adapted to break         initial impact and distribute impact forces between the collar         and the bib.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided an upper body protector comprising:

-   -   a body portion having a front and a back;     -   a spine protector shield system attached to the back of the body         portion, said spine protector shield system comprising:     -   at least two shield sections sized, shaped and positioned to         cover a wearer's spine when the upper body protector is worn by         the wearer;     -   each of the at least two shield sections having a top end and a         bottom end, the top end of each shield section being attached to         the body portion;     -   the bottom end of at least one shield section overlapping a top         end of an adjacent shield section, the bottom end of the at         least one shield section being free;     -   whereby the spine protector shield system is adapted to protect         at least a portion of the length of the wearer's spine while         permitting flex and freedom of movement, as well as venting in         the region of overlap.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided an upper body protector comprising:

-   -   a body portion having a front and a back;     -   a chest protector shield system attached to the front of the         body portion, said chest protector shield system comprising:     -   at least two shield sections sized, shaped and positioned to         cover at least the wearer's sternum when the upper body         protector is worn by the wearer;     -   each of the at least two shield sections having a top end and a         bottom end, the top end of each shield section being attached to         the body portion;     -   the bottom end of at least one shield section overlapping a top         end of an adjacent shield section, the bottom end of the at         least one shield section being free;     -   whereby the chest protector shield system is adapted to protect         at least a portion of the wearer's sternum, while permitting         flex and freedom of movement, as well as venting in the region         of overlap.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference will now be made to the preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference, by way of example only, to the following drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a front view of the combined neck and upper body protective garment according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a rear view of the combined neck and upper body protective garment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a neck protector of the combined neck and upper body protective garment of FIG. 1, the neck protector having a two-part collar and bib members shown in a closed position with elasticised fastening straps in an open position;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the neck protector of FIG. 3 with the two-part collar and bib members shown in an open position;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the rear, second part of the collar attached to a rear, second bib member of FIG. 4, and a cross-sectional view of a back portion of the upper body portion of the combined neck and upper body protective garment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 4 along line A-A;

FIG. 7 is a top view of a right chest and back protector portion shown lying flat;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a neck protector having a one piece collar according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a neck protector having a one piece collar according to another embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is described in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof as shown in the appended drawings. In the figures, like elements are given like reference numbers. For the purposes of clarity, not every component is labelled in every figure, nor is every component of each embodiment of the invention shown where illustration is not necessary to allow those of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention.

FIGS. 1 and 2 show front and rear views of the combined neck and upper body protector garment (indicated generally at 10) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The combined neck and upper body protector garment 10 comprises a protector 12 and an upper body protector 14.

As best seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, the neck protector 12 preferably comprises a two-part collar 16 which is sized and shaped to provide a continuous closure (i.e. continuous protection when the collar is closed) all the way around the neck of a wearer. Accordingly, in the preferred embodiment the two-part collar 16 leaves no space or gap for an object to strike portions of the wearer's neck which are protected by the collar 16. The first part 18 of the two-part collar 16, which is adapted to cover a front of the wearer's neck, has a groove 20, 22 at each end 24, 26. The second part 28 of the collar 16, which is adapted to cover the rear of the wearer's neck, has tongues 30, 32 at each end which are adapted to fit into the respective grooves 20, 22 to form tongue and groove interlocks. Preferably, the tongues 30, 32 of the second part 28 of the two-part collar 16 are tapered in thickness to provide a two-part collar having a relatively uniform thickness along its circumference. For added comfort to the wearer, the first part 18 of the two-part collar 16 preferably includes a recess 34 in the wearer's chin area.

Preferably, the two-part collar 16 is also provided with a closure for keeping the collar 16 closed in a tongue and groove interlocking fashion. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the closure comprises fastening straps 36 with hook and/or loop fastening pads 35 extending from the ends 24, 26 of the first part 18 and coupling to complementary hook and/or loop fastening pads 38 attached adjacent the tongues 30, 32 of the second part 28. Fastening straps 36 are preferably made from an elasticized material. In alternate embodiments the fastening straps 36 may only have portions which are elasticised. However, less preferred embodiments in which the fastening straps 36 are not elasticised are also contemplated. When in use, the fastening straps 36 hold the tapered tongues 30, 32 of the second part in the grooves 20, 22 of the first part 18 in a tongue and groove fashion thereby securing the neck protector 12 in place around the wearer's neck. The grooves 20, 22 are preferably formed between portions of the fastening straps 36 and adjacent portions of the collar 16, as shown for example, in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, and 8, or entirely in the collar 16, as shown for example, in FIG. 9. Combinations of these two configurations are also contemplated. The tongue and groove interlocking of the two-part collar 16 provides seamless protection around the entire circumference of the wearer's neck. Furthermore, providing the tongues 30, 32 with a tapered thickness ensures that the collar 16 will have a relatively uniform thickness along its circumference, as mentioned above. The uniform thickness of the collar 16 provides improved comfort as compared with bulky overlapping sections which press on the wearer's neck.

Preferably, the tongue and groove interlocking of the two-part collar 16 is configured to allow for an adjustment of the perimeter of the neck protector 12 to accommodate for different neck sizes, as well as allowing the neck protector 12 to be opened and the entire garment 10 donned by sliding over the wearer's head. The perimeter adjustment is achieved by positioning the tongues 30, 32 more or less deeply in the grooves 20, 22.

It should be noted that although utilizing a two-part collar in the neck protector 12 is preferred, it is also contemplated that in some instances a one piece collar, as shown for example in FIG. 8, may be used in place of the two-part collar. As can be seen, the one piece collar has a tongue 30 at one end and a groove 20 at the other end and the tongue 30 is adapted to fit into the groove 20 in a tongue and groove interlocking fashion.

Accordingly, it will now be understood that in the preferred embodiment, the tongues 30, 32 of one part of the two-part collar 16 detachably interlock with grooves 20, 22 on the other part and that the tongue and groove interlock is secured with fastening straps 36 on the other part. The fastening straps 36 detachably attach to fastening pads 38 on the first part.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, a bib 40 depends directly, or indirectly, from the two-part collar 16, and the collar 16 extends from the bib 40 in a free standing manner. The bib 40 is adapted to attach to the inside of the upper body protector 14 to provide coverage of the wearer's neck, larynx and throat. Like the two-part collar 16, the bib 40 is preferably formed with two members 42, 44. The first member 42 of the bib 40 depends from the first part 18 of the collar 16, and the second member 44 of the bib 40 depends from the second part 28 of the collar 16. In the preferred embodiment, the first and second members 42, 44 of the bib 40 overlap to cover the wearer's inner shoulder, inner clavicles, and base of the neck thereby providing complete protection in the area of the wearer's neck. Accordingly, as mentioned above, the two-part collar 16 preferably leaves no space for an object to strike portions of the wearer's neck which are protected by the collar 16. The overlapping portions are also sized, and shaped to underlie the top portions of the upper body protector 14 to cover the space in the head opening of the upper body protector 14 into which the neck protector 12 may be inserted, as discussed in more detail below.

A venting section 46 may be provided between the two part collar 16 and the bib 40 to allow air, heat, and water vapour to pass therethrough. The venting section 46 can be a simple aperture or an aperture covered with a mesh 48 or a material which allows air, heat, and water vapour to pass therethrough. Preferably a plurality of venting sections 46 are be provided between the collar 16 and the bib 40 along the circumference of the collar 16 as illustrated in the figures.

FIG. 6, which is a cross-section of a front of the neck protector 12 (i.e. second part 28 of the collar 16 and second member 44 of the bib 40) shows the preferred construction of the neck protector 12. As shown, the neck protector 12 is preferably constructed with a laceration-resistant material 50 on the outside and a wicking material 52 on the inside. Sandwiched between the exterior materials is a thin, perforated medium density foam 54 that is bonded to a porous, breathable polyester foam lining 56. In the preferred embodiment, the perforated medium density foam 54 is sandwiched between the exterior materials so that it does not extend to the very top of the collar, thus providing added comfort to the wearer. Most preferably, the perforated medium density foam 54 will only extend to within half of an inch from the top of the collar. The polyester foam lining 56 descends to the bottom of the bib 40 of the neck protector 12. The materials of the neck protector 12 may be joined by known methods including stitching 13, bonding, etc.

Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, there is shown a neck shield member 58 attached to a front exterior of the neck protector 12, extending from a front center of the collar 16 to a front center of the bib 40. Neck shield members 58 are preferably long and thin, semi-rigid plastic members, which are pre-molded, to have a curve or bend of about 170°, to permit the bib 40 to extend outwardly from an axis of the wearer's neck by about 10°. However, good results may be obtained by pre-molding the neck shield members 58 to have a bend of between 175° and 165°. The neck shield members 58 are adapted to break initial impact forces and distribute them between the collar 16 and the bib 40. It has been found that the neck shield members 58 provide improved protection of the C1-C4 vertebrae when positioned at the back of the wearer and similarly, the jugular and larynx when positioned at the front of the wearer. It is believed that the neck shield members 58 break initial impact forces and distribute them into the foam cores of the collar 16 and bib 40 of the neck protector 12. The neck shield members 58 can be attached to neck protector 12 by any means known in the art including but not limited to stitching or bonding. Furthermore, although the preferred embodiment has the neck shield members 58 attached to the exterior of the collar 16 and bib 40, this need not be so, and it will be understood that the neck shield members may be attached underneath the exterior materials.

According to the preferred embodiment, two neck shield members 58 are attached to the neck protector 12. In particular, one is attached to the front center of the neck protector 12 over the wearer's throat and the other is attached to the rear center of the neck protector 12 over the wearer's spine. Good results have been obtained by positioning the neck shield members 58 within an inch of the top of the collar 16 of the neck protector 12 and within an inch of a bottom of the bib 40. The neck shield members 58 are preferably pre-formed to fit the natural curve of the wearer's neck at the junction of the collar 16 and bib 40.

To reduce hindering or intrusive points of contact, the exposed tops 60 of the neck shield members 58 may be made thinner than their bottoms (which will be covered by the upper body protector 14) by forming them with a splay. Accordingly, the splayed tops 60 stick out less from the collar 16 while providing the same level of protection from impact forces as the thicker bottoms.

The splayed tops 60 are also useful in distributing impact forces over a larger area on the collar 16. In other words, the greater surface area of the splayed tops 60 of the neck shield members 58 helps distribute impact forces more widely over that area and reduces the probability of large point forces that can cause injury. While the preferred embodiment of the present invention is described with two neck shield members 58, it will be understood that more or less, or even none may be provided on the neck protector 12. Also, the neck shield members 58 may take a different form than the preferred embodiment described here.

As shown in FIG. 1, when the neck protector 12 is used in combination with an upper body protector 14 the bottom of the front neck shield member 58 descends into the upper body protector 14 under the chest protector shield system 62, which is discussed in more detail below. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 2, the bottom of the rear neck shield member 58 descends into the upper body protector 14 under the spine protector shield system 64, which is also discussed in more detail below. The overlapping of the front neck shield member by the chest protector shield system 62 forms an integral shield system that preferably covers the length of the wearer's front from the throat and larynx down the sternum to the stomach. Similarly, the overlapping of the back neck shield members 58 by the spine protector shield system 64 forms an integral shield system that preferably covers the length of the wearer's spine from the neck down to the lower back. The integral shield systems thus distribute impact forces, thereby eliminating or reducing the concentration of impact forces to vital areas covered by the shield systems.

The attachment of the bib 40 to the upper body protector 14 is preferably achieved by corresponding hook and/or loop fasteners. For example, FIG. 3 shows two hook and/or loop fastener pads 66 on the first member 42 of the bib 40, and one of two hook and/or loop fastener pads 66 on the second member 44 of the bib 40. Referring now to FIG. 2, it can be seen that the neck protector 12 is attached to the upper body protector 14 by inserting the neck protector 12 into and underneath the upper body protector 14 and connecting the corresponding hook and/or loop fastener pads 66 to the upper body protector 14. This method of attachment advantageously permits overall adjustment of the height of the neck protector 12 relative to the upper body protector 14, because the pieces can be easily detached, moved slightly, and reattached. It also allows convenient removal of the neck protector 12 from the upper body protector 14 for cleaning purposes. This adjustment is achieved by adjusting the degree and position of the overlap of the fastener pads 66 on the upper body protector 14 and the fastener pads 66 on the bib 40. The overlapping of the bib members 42, 44 mentioned above, in combination with the overlapping of the upper body protector 14 over the bib 40 provides total coverage of the wearer's neck, larynx and throat and eliminates entry points for foreign objects that may cause injury to the wearer. In other words, attaching the neck protector 12 to the upper body protector 14 in this manner permits the garment 10 to function as a single unit. Accordingly, there are no seams or external loops that can provide a hold for an opponent or otherwise allow for the opponent's equipment, such as a hockey stick, to be caught thereon and displace the protective equipment and expose vitals. Furthermore, this method of attachment helps prevent the position of the neck protector 12 from shifting and exposing vitals to the dangers of impact from skate blades, sticks, blades, pucks or other foreign elements.

Attaching the neck protector 12 to the upper body protector 14 and attaching the neck shield members 58 to the foam cores of the collar 16 allow the neck protector 12 to remain upright without relying on constant contact with the wearer's neck. This freestanding nature of the neck protector 12 provides spaces between the wearer's neck and the neck protector 12 which effectively dissipates heat from beneath the garment. This is an improvement over prior art neck protectors which require tight wrapping around the wearer's neck in order to stand upright, and create a thermal barrier preventing efficient dissipation of heat from beneath the garment. Combined with the venting sections 46, discussed above, which further increases heat dissipation from beneath the garment, the freestanding nature of the neck protector 12 improves the comfort level and ability of the wearer to participate in various contact sports.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the preferred spine protector shield system 64 can be seen extending the length of the back of the upper body protector 14 in three separate and overlapping shield sections 68 to protect at least a portion of, and most preferably all of, the wearer's spine while allowing for flex and freedom of movement of the wearer. The shield sections 68 are preferably constructed of vented, pliable, semi-rigid plastic bonded to perforated medium density foam encased in the breathable external fabric. However, in an alternate embodiment the shield sections 68 may be constructed by bonding the plastic to the perforated medium density foam and encasing the entire structure with the breathable external fabric. The shield sections 68 are sized, shaped and positioned to cover the wearer's spine when the upper body protector 14 is worn by the wearer. The tops of the shield sections 68 are splayed to permit attachment to a left chest and back protector portion 70 and a right chest and back protector portion 72 of the upper body protector 14.

It has been found that this method of attaching the shield sections 68 to the upper body protector 14 allows for the shield sections 68 to retain their position to protect vital areas of the wearer's body, while floating freely at their bottom ends, which permits flex, and allows for venting between the left and right back protector portions 70, 72, and the spine protector shield system 64, and between the region of overlap of the shield sections 68 themselves. In other words, the bottom ends of the shield sections 68 are free to slide over the top ends of the adjacent shield sections 68 in a side to side or top to bottom direction. This permits the wearer to bend his or her upper body a certain amount forwards, backwards, and side to side, as well as to twist his or her upper body a certain amount. Since the top of the underlying shield section 68 supports the bottom of the overlying shield section 68, there is still full coverage of the wearer's vital areas, as well as a distribution of impact forces.

The top and bottom of the bottommost spine shield section 74 are attached to the left and right chest and back protector portions 70, 72. Preferably, to provide total coverage of the wearer's back, the bottommost spine shield section 74 is also sized and shaped to extend past the bottom of the upper body protector 14 and descend within the padded belts of the wearer's protective pants (not shown). The top end of the uppermost spine shield section 76 is preferably splayed and attached to a collar ring 78 to provide improved shoulder to shoulder protective integrity of the protective garment 10 and to help intercept or interrupt the paths of objects deflected off the tops of the shoulder pads 82 of the upper body protector 14 towards the wearer's neck. The attachment of the top end of the uppermost spine shield section 76 to the collar ring 78 is best seen in FIG. 5. While FIG. 2 shows the spine protector shield system 64 as consisting of three spine shield sections 68, it will be understood that it is contemplated that two or more spine shield sections 68 may be used with suitable results.

Referring now to FIG. 1, the chest protector shield system 62 can be seen extending the length of the front of the upper body protector 14 in two separate and overlapping shield sections 68 providing uninterrupted protection of at least a portion of the wearer's front while allowing for flex and freedom of movement of the wearer. Similar to the spine protector shield system 64, the shield sections 68 of the chest protector shield system 62 are preferably constructed of vented, pliable, semi-rigid plastic bonded to perforated medium density foam encased in the breathable external fabric. The shield sections 68 are sized, shaped and positioned to cover at least a portion of, and most preferably all of, the wearer's sternum when the upper body protector 14 is worn by the wearer. The tops of the shield sections 68 are splayed to permit attachment to the left chest and back protector portion 70 and the right chest and back protector portion 72 of the upper body protector 14. It has been found that additional protection may be incorporated into the chest shield system 62 by providing a larynx protector shield 69 over the wearer's larynx region between the neck shield member 58 and the uppermost sternum shield section 68.

This method of attaching the shield sections 68 of the chest protector shield system 62 to the upper body protector 14 allows for the shield sections to retain their position while floating freely at their bottoms. As in the case of the spine protector shield system 64, discussed above, this method of attachment permits flex, and allows for considerable venting between the left and right chest and back protector portions 70, 72 and the chest protector shield system 62, and between the region of overlap of the shield sections 68 themselves. The top end of the uppermost sternum shield section 68 is preferably splayed and attached to the collar ring 78 to provide improved shoulder to shoulder protective integrity of the protective garment 10. While FIG. 1 shows the chest protector shield system 62 as consisting of two sternum shield sections 68, it will be understood that it is contemplated that more sternum shield sections 68 may be used with suitable results.

FIG. 7 shows a right chest and back protector portion 72. The front of the right chest and back protector portion 72 is indicated at 71. The rear of the right chest and back protector portion 72 is indicated at 73. The left chest and back protector portion 70 is a mirror image of the right chest and back protector portion 72. The right and left chest and back protector portions 72, 70 are preferably manufactured with vented, pliable, semi-rigid plastic armor plates 75 that are attached to perforated medium density foam all of which is encased in the breathable external fabric of the garment. Good results have been obtained by manufacturing the right and left chest and back protector portions 72, 70 as one unit. The centre (shoulder) line of the integral right chest and back protector portion 72 is indicated at 77. The left and right chest and back protector portions 70, 72 include an uppermost plastic armor shield 80 in the shoulder area, which is pre-molded to hold the curvature of this area and to aid in the overall structure of the protective garment 10.

Preferably, the left and right chest and back protector portions 70, 72 are provided with protruding areas 79, which protrude inward toward the middle of the wearer's chest and abdomen, for attaching the shield sections 68 of the chest and spine protector shield systems 62, 64. Furthermore, recessed areas 81 may be provided to facilitate venting under the shield sections 68 of the chest and spine protector shield systems 62, 64.

It can now be understood that when the neck protector 12 is used in combination with an upper body protector 14, the arrangement of overlapping shields preferably provides uninterrupted protection over at least a portion of, but most preferably all of, the length of the wearer's throat, larynx, sternum, chest and spine while still permitting flex and free range of motion of the wearer's head, shoulders, arms and torso. In contrast, prior art garments tend provide either uninterrupted protection or flex and freedom of motion, but not both. For example, a garment employing unitary, rigid, sternum and spine shields might to provide protection from impact and laceration forces but would generally be lacking in flex and freedom of motion for the wearer. On the other hand, prior art garments employing unitary, soft, sternum and spine shields might provide flex and freedom of motion for the wearer, but could lack adequate protection from impact and laceration forces. Preferably, the present invention provides the overlapping arrangement of rigid or semi-rigid shields to protect against impact and laceration forces while still permitting flex and free range of motion of the wearer's head, shoulders, arms and torso.

As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the collar ring 78 encircles the circumference of the opening in the upper body protector 14 for the wearer's head, or head hole. As best seen in FIG. 5, the collar ring 78 is preferably constructed with pre-formed dual density foam. Most preferably the collar ring 78 is constructed as a pre-formed high density foam core 84 surrounded by a low density foam 86. The collar ring 78 provides integrity to the circumference of the opening for the wearer's head and the shoulder to shoulder portion of the upper body protector 14. Shoulder cups 82 are preferably attached to a significant section of the collar ring 78 to stabilize and prevent displacement of the shoulder cups 82 due to impact forces. The collar ring 78 also acts to intercept or interrupt the motion of objects after having been deflected off the tops of the shoulder pads 82 towards the wearer's neck. The attachment of the shoulder cups 82 to the collar ring 78 prevents the jamming of the shoulder cups 82 into the wearer's neck or head during moments of impact. It is believed that the foam of the collar ring 78 and the integrity provided by the hard plastic of the shoulder cups 82, and the splayed tops of the spine and chest shield sections 68 help stabilize the shoulder cups 82 and distribute the forces due to impact through the collar ring 78. It has been found that this distribution of impact forces reduces the dangers of common injuries to the wearer's shoulder and clavicle areas.

As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the upper body protector 14 of the protective garment 10 includes wrap-around rib protectors 88 for shielding the wearer's sides and rib cage from impact forces. The rib protectors 88 are preferably constructed with perforated, medium density foam and are overlain with thin pre-molded, vented and pliable plastic armor. The rib protectors 88 are preferably pre-formed to fit the curved contours of the wearer. According to an embodiment of the present invention, complementary hook and/or loop fastener pads 90, located on inner surfaces of chest protector portions 70, 72, are used to affix the rib protectors 88 to the left and right back and chest protector portions 70, 72 of the upper body protector 14. Preferably, the complementary hook and/or loop fastener pads are sized, shaped and positioned to allow for adjustment of the perimeter of the upper body protector 14 to accommodate varying body types. Most preferably, the adjustability of the rib protectors 88 permits the wearer to snug the rib protectors 88 up against the left and right back and chest protector portions 70, 72 to provide seamless protection of the entire circumference of the wearer's mid-section. Furthermore, the wearer will have the option of removing the rib protectors 88 in certain circumstances. Alternately, in other embodiments of the present invention, the rib protectors 88 may be omitted from the protective garment 10 altogether.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 body straps 92 are preferably provided on the upper body protector 14 to secure the protective garment 10 to the wearer's mid-section. According to a preferred embodiment, the body straps 92 are made adjustable with hook and/or loop fasteners 94. The body straps 92 attach at the backs of the left and right back and chest protector portions 70, 72 and wrap around to attach with hook and/or loop fasteners 94 to complementary hook and/or loop fastener pads 95 on the fronts of the left and right back and chest protector portions 70, 72. The body straps 92 are preferably made from an elasticized material. In alternate embodiments the body straps 92 may only have portions which are elasticised. However, less preferred embodiments in which the body straps 92 are not elasticised are also contemplated.

FIG. 1 also shows an adjustable stomach shield 96 attached on inside, front, bottom of each of the left and right chest protector portions 70, 72, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The stomach shield 96 is preferably attached using hook and/or loop fastener pads 98. The hook and loop fastener pads 98 are preferably adapted to permit adjusting a height of the stomach shield 96 relative to the upper body protector 14 to accommodate varying body types as well as varying heights of padded belts found in protective pants (not shown) which may used by the wearer in combination with the protective garment 10.

While reference has been made to various preferred embodiments of the invention other variations are comprehended by the broad scope of the appended claims. Some of these have been discussed in detail in this specification and others will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All such variations and alterations are comprehended by this specification are intended to be covered, without limitation. 

1. A neck protector comprising: a collar sized and shaped to provide a continuous closure around a neck of a wearer, when in a closed configuration; said collar having a first pair of opposed ends; said collar having a first tongue at one of the ends and a first groove at the other of the ends, wherein said first tongue is adapted to fit into said first groove to form a first tongue and groove interlock; and a closure for maintaining the first tongue and groove interlock and keeping the collar in said closed configuration.
 2. The neck protector according to claim 1, wherein said first tongue and said first groove are sized, shaped and positioned so that the first tongue and groove interlocking permits perimeter adjustment of the collar.
 3. The neck protector according to claim 1, further comprising a bib depending from the collar.
 4. The neck protector according to claim 3, wherein the bib is sized, shaped and adapted to attach to and be overlapped by an upper body protector to provide coverage of the wearer's neck, larynx and throat.
 5. The neck protector according to claim 4, wherein the bib includes hook and/or loop fasteners for attaching to corresponding hook and/or loop fasteners on the upper body protector.
 6. The neck protector according to claim 5, wherein the hook and/or loop fasteners are positioned and arranged on the bib to permit overall height adjustment of the neck protector relative to the upper body protector.
 7. The neck protector according to claim 3, wherein the collar depends from the bib in a freestanding manner.
 8. The neck protector according to claim 3, further comprising at least one venting section between the collar and the bib.
 9. The neck protector according to claim 3, further comprising at least one neck shield member attached to the collar and to the bib, wherein the neck shield member is adapted to break initial impact and distribute impact forces between the collar and the bib.
 10. The neck protector according to claim 9, wherein the at least one neck shield member is positioned over a throat area of the wearer.
 11. The neck protector according to claim 9, wherein the at least one neck shield member is positioned over a spine area of the wearer.
 12. The neck protector according to claim 9, wherein said at least one neck shield member has a top end which is splayed to prevent any hindering or intrusive points of contact and to further distribute the impact forces.
 13. The neck protector according to claim 9, wherein the at least one neck shield member is a semi-rigid plastic member.
 14. The neck protector according to claim 1, wherein the closure comprises: a strap having a first end and a second end, the first end of the strap being attached to the collar adjacent to one of said first tongue and said first groove; one of a hook and a loop fastener being attached adjacent to the other of said first tongue and said first groove; and the other of the hook and the loop fastener being attached adjacent to the second end of the strap.
 15. A neck protector according to claim 1, wherein said collar comprises a first part and a second part, each of said first and second parts having a first end and a second end; the first pair of opposed ends comprising the first end of the first part and the second end of the second part; the collar further comprising a second pair of opposed ends comprising the second end of the first part and the second end of the second part; said collar having one of a second tongue and a second groove at said second end of said first part and the other of said second tongue and said second groove at said first end of said second part; wherein said second tongue is adapted to fit into said second groove to form a second tongue and groove interlock.
 16. The neck protector according to claim 15, further comprising a bib depending from the collar, wherein the bib comprises first and second members, the first member being attached to the first part of the collar, and the second member being attached to the second part of the collar.
 17. A combined neck and upper body protector comprising: an upper body protector; and a neck protector according to claim 11, detachably attached to said upper body protector, said upper body protector having a chest protector shield system, the at least one neck shield member being sized, shaped, and positioned to underlie the chest protector shield system to provide uninterrupted protection of at least a portion of the wearer's throat, larynx, sternum and chest.
 18. A combined neck and upper body protector comprising: an upper body protector; and a neck protector according to claim 11, detachably attached to said upper body protector, said upper body protector having a spine protector shield system, the at least one neck shield member is sized and shaped to underlie the spine protector shield system to provide uninterrupted protection of at least a portion of the wearer's spine.
 19. A neck protector comprising a collar sized and shaped to provide a continuous closure substantially around a neck of a wearer; a bib depending from said collar; and at least one neck shield member attached to the collar and to the bib, wherein the neck shield member is adapted to break initial impact and distribute impact forces between the collar and the bib.
 20. An upper body protector comprising: a body portion having a front and a back; a spine protector shield system attached to the back of the body portion, said spine protector shield system comprising: at least two shield sections sized, shaped and positioned to cover a wearer's spine when the upper body protector is worn by the wearer; each of the at least two shield sections having a top end and a bottom end, the top end of each shield section being attached to the body portion; the bottom end of at least one shield section overlapping a top end of an adjacent shield section, the bottom end of the at least one shield section being free; whereby the spine protector shield system is adapted to protect at least a portion of the wearer's spine while permitting flex and freedom of movement, as well as venting in the region of overlap.
 21. The upper body protector according to claim 20, wherein the at least two shield sections are constructed of vented, semi-rigid plastic bonded to perforated medium density foam encased in a breathable external fabric.
 22. An upper body protector comprising: a body portion having a front and a back; a chest protector shield system attached to the front of the body portion, the chest protector shield system comprising: at least two shield sections sized, shaped and positioned to cover at least the wearer's sternum when the upper body protector is worn by the wearer; each of the at least two shield sections having a top end and a bottom end, the top end of each shield section being attached to the body portion; the bottom end of at least one shield section overlapping a top end of an adjacent shield section, the bottom end of the at least one shield section being free; whereby the chest protector shield system is adapted to protect at least a portion of the wearer's sternum, while permitting flex and freedom of movement, as well as venting in the region of overlap.
 23. The upper body protector according to claim 22, wherein the at least two shield sections are constructed of vented, semi-rigid plastic bonded to perforated medium density foam encased in a breathable external fabric.
 24. A combined neck and upper body protector comprising: an upper body protector comprising: a body portion having a front and a back; a spine protector shield system attached to the back of the body portion, the spine protector shield system comprising: at least two shield sections sized, shaped and positioned to cover the wearer's spine when the upper body protector is worn by the wearer; each of the at least two shield sections having a top end and a bottom end, the top end of each shield section being attached to the body portion; the bottom end of at least one shield section overlapping a top end of an adjacent shield section, the bottom end of the at least one shield section being free; whereby the spine protector shield system is adapted to protect at least a portion of the length of the wearer's spine while permitting flex and freedom of movement, as well as venting in the region of overlap; and a neck protector detachably attached to said upper body protector, said neck protector comprising: a collar sized and shaped to provide a continuous closure around a neck of the wearer, when in a closed configuration; said collar having a first pair of opposed ends; said collar having a first tongue at one of the ends and a first groove at the other of the ends, wherein said first tongue is adapted to fit into said first groove to form a first tongue and groove interlock; and a closure for maintaining the first tongue and groove interlock and keeping the collar in said closed configuration.
 25. The combined neck and upper body protector according to claim 24, wherein the neck protector further comprises a bib depending from the collar, said bib being detachably attached to and overlapped by said upper body protector.
 26. The combined neck and upper body protector according to claim 24 further comprising: a chest protector shield system attached to the front of the body portion, the chest protector shield system comprising: at least two shield sections sized, shaped and positioned to cover at least the wearer's sternum when the upper body protector is worn by the wearer; each of the at least two shield sections having a top end and a bottom end, the top end of each shield section being attached to the body portion; the bottom end of at least one shield section overlapping a top end of an adjacent shield section, the bottom end of the at least one shield section being free; whereby the chest protector shield system is adapted to protect at least a portion of the wearer's sternum, while permitting flex and freedom of movement, as well as venting in the region of overlap.
 27. The combined neck and upper body protector according to claim 26, wherein the neck protector further comprises a bib depending from the collar, the bib being detachably attached to and overlapped by the upper body protector, and wherein said neck protector further comprises at least one neck shield member attached to the collar and to the bib over at least a portion of the wearer's throat, and underlying at least a portion of the chest protector shield system, wherein the neck shield member is adapted to break initial impact and distribute impact forces between the collar, the bib, and the chest protector shield system, to provide uninterrupted protection of at least a portion of the wearer's throat, larynx, sternum, and chest.
 28. A combined neck and upper body protector comprising: an upper body protector comprising: a body portion having a front and a back; a chest protector shield system attached to the front of the body portion, the chest protector shield system comprising: at least two shield sections sized, shaped and positioned to cover at least a portion of the wearer's sternum when the upper body protector is worn by the wearer; each of the at least two shield sections having a top end and a bottom end, the top end of each shield section being attached to the body portion; the bottom end of at least one shield section overlapping a top end of an adjacent shield section, the bottom end of the at least one shield section being free; whereby the chest protector shield system is adapted to protect at least a portion of the wearer's sternum, while permitting flex and freedom of movement, as well as venting in the region of overlap; and a neck protector detachably attached to said upper body protector, said neck protector comprising: a collar sized and shaped to provide a continuous closure around a neck of the wearer, when in a closed configuration; said collar having a first pair of opposed ends; said collar having a first tongue at one of the ends and a first groove at the other of the ends, wherein said first tongue is adapted to fit into said first groove to form a first tongue and groove interlock; and a closure for maintaining the first tongue and groove interlock and keeping the collar in said closed configuration.
 29. A combined neck and upper body protector according to claim 28 further comprising: a spine protector shield system attached to the back of the body portion, the spine protector shield system comprising: at least two shield sections sized, shaped and positioned to cover the wearer's spine when the upper body protector is worn by the wearer; each of the at least two shield sections having a top end and a bottom end, the top end of each shield section being attached to the body portion; the bottom end of at least one shield section overlapping a top end of an adjacent shield section, the bottom end of the at least one shield section being free; whereby the spine protector shield system is adapted to protect at least a portion of the length of the wearer's spine while permitting flex and freedom of movement, as well as venting in the region of overlap.
 30. The combined neck and upper body protector according to claim 29, wherein the neck protector further comprises a bib depending from the collar, said bib being detachably attached to and overlapped by said upper body protector, and wherein said neck protector further comprises at least one neck shield member attached to the collar and to the bib over at least a portion of the wearer's spine, and underlying at least a portion of the spine protector shield system, wherein the neck shield member is adapted to break initial impact and distribute impact forces between the collar, the bib, and the spine protector shield system, to provide uninterrupted protection of at least a portion of the wearer's spine. 